Periodontal pockets are actually an integral part of your oral health. They act like glue that holds your teeth together. Periodontal pockets are spaces that are present between the teeth and the gum tissues that hold or fit your teeth snugly into their sockets. This often serves as a warning sign for the serious dental health concerns that might be in order if proper care is not taken at the proper time.
Types of periodontal pockets are characterized on the basis of their severity. 1 to 3 mm of pocket depth is normal, 4 to 5 mm is early periodontitis, 5 to 7 mm is moderate periodontitis, 7 to 8 mm is severe periodontitis. For you to fight the disease, it is important to know the cause of the disease. High time to educate ourselves and get a deeper understanding of the causes:
- The formation of plaque on your teeth can be the starting point to absolutely every oral health disease. It is also a leading cause of the development of periodontal pockets. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth on a daily basis. If not removed with thorough brushing and flossing, the plaque can harden into tartar. Tartar releases toxins and will irritate the gums resulting in gum inflammation, swelling and eventual loss of tooth and gum tissue.
- Untreated Gingivitis progresses to periodontitis where the underlying infection can worsen and create periodontal pockets and damage the underlying bones.
- Genetic factors also play a role in the development of periodontal pockets. If gum diseases run in the family, it is highly possible that you might have them too.
- Poor oral hygiene is another common cause. Just like every other body part, our oral health requires constant care too. Poor oral hygiene increases our vulnerability to various spectrum of health concerns.
- Tobacco use and smoking is a major contributor to periodontal disease. The chemicals in tobacco interference with the normal function of gum tissue cells, impairing blood flow and leading to the formation of deeper pockets.
- Various other causes like diabetes, stress and hormonal changes also need to be taken into account when understanding periodontal pockets.
Early detection and treatment of periodontal pockets will prevent gum diseases from worsening. And if there is one saying that all of us should live by, it is that prevention is key. To begin with, brush twice daily with an electric toothbrush and floss your problems away with a dental flosser. Take the first step today, and be relaxed later.
